‘Health benefits of watermelon’: 7 reasons why they are best for summer

The health benefits of watermelon are derived from its unique nutrients, which include vitamins, minerals and organic compounds.

It also has a wide variety of antioxidants, amino acids and loads of phytonutrients lycopene.

Citrulline is an amino acid in watermelon that is most noted for being converted into arginine by the kidneys and other body systems. This greatly improves blood flow and prevent excess accumulation of fat cells.

The top 7 health benefits of watermelon are listed below.

Promotes kidney health

The abundance of potassium and calcium in watermelon is effective in flushing out the toxins depositions in the kidney. Further on they are beneficial in lowering the uric acid concentration in the blood which reduces the chance of renal calculi formation. The water content induces frequent urination which cleanses the kidneys.

Prevents Cancer

The high levels of lycopene, a carotenoid phytonutrient compound in watermelons have gained a lot of importance in recent years that is increasingly being associated with cancer prevention. Lycopene has shown amazing potential to reduce the risks of prostate, breast, colon, lung and endometrial cancer. In addition to the antioxidant power of Vitamin C, lycopene makes watermelon a great anti-cancer fruit.

Maintains blood pressure

Watermelons are loaded with potassium and magnesium which help to lower blood pressure. The carotenoids present in melons also prevent hardening of artery walls and veins thereby assisting to lower blood pressure, strokes, heart attacks, and atherosclerosis.

Healthy heart

The goodness of lycopene in watermelons a powerhouse of antioxidants improves cardiac functions, keeps you young at heart and prevents age-related cardiac problems. The presence of vitamin C, carotenoids, and potassium, aids to lower cholesterol and keep your heart healthy.

Regulates hydration

Sunny days may take a toll on your health, watermelons are ideal to ward off heat strokes. The high amount of water and electrolytes in watermelons keep you hydrated and stimulates perspiration, which naturally cools your body further on hot days.

Enhance eye health

Consume plenty of watermelons to prevent macular degeneration and boosts eye health. The richness of beta-carotene, vitamin C, lutein, and zeaxanthin in watermelons safeguards your eyes. It prevents the eyes from illness such as drying up of eyes and optic nerves and glaucoma.

The article has been taken from health journal netmeds